Where is the La Famille Express shipwreck?

It sits on the Caicos Banks south of Providenciales, grounded since 2004. It’s reached by boat and surrounded by shallow flats.

What’s the best time to visit?

When winds are lighter and seas are settled. Captains time visits for comfort, visibility, and safety—often mornings or late-day windows.

Can I jump from the shipwreck?

Only if sea-state and safety allow and your captain authorizes it. The wreck is unstable; many guests opt for photos and a calm-water swim nearby.

Is it suitable for kids?

Yes for a photo stop and gentle swim (conditions permitting). Any elevated jumping is adults-only and strictly captain’s discretion.

Can this be added to a private charter itinerary?

Absolutely. It pairs well with sandbars, reef snorkeling, Half Moon Bay, or a floating tiki bar hop—timed around weather and tides.

La Famille Express Shipwreck: Photos, Safety & Timing | Turks Ventures

La Famille Express Shipwreck: Photos, Safety & Timing

Iconic, photogenic, and conditions-dependent — the La Famille Express Shipwreck in Turks and Caicos is a must-see stop. Here’s how we plan a safe, crowd-smart visit on your private charter.

Quick Facts

At a Glance

Where: Caicos Banks, south of Providenciales (shallow flats)
How: Private boat charter (captain’s approach line & depth awareness required)
Why go: One of Provo’s most photogenic landmarks

Photo stopConditions dependentShallow banks

Safety Snapshot

Rusty and unstable—admire from boat/water; no entry inside
Optional supervised jumps only if captain approves
Plan around wind, tide, and traffic

Captains may substitute safer stops if conditions change en route.

History & Location

Originally a Soviet-era vessel later used as a freighter, the La Famille Express was grounded by Hurricane Frances in 2004 and now rests upright in shallow water on the Caicos Banks. Its stark silhouette against glowing turquoise makes it a must-see on calm days.

Getting There (Approach Etiquette)

Reachable from Providenciales by private charter; approach on the correct line to avoid shoals
Captains monitor wind and tide, then stage the stop for best comfort and visibility
Standard practice: maintain safe distance from other boats; no climbing into the wreck

What to Expect

Open-water approach with expansive shallow flats
Epic photo ops from the boat; optional calm-water swim nearby
Supervised jumps only if sea state & safety permit

We continuously check wind, current, and traffic. Your captain has final say on all in-water activity.

How We Time the Stop

Light-wind windows for smoother rides and clearer water
Flexible routing—early or late based on conditions and crowds
Pairs naturally with sandbars or reefs to maximize your day

Perfect Pairings

Shipwreck + Sandbar (Sand Dollar Island style photos)
Shipwreck + Barrier-reef snorkel (morning clarity)
Shipwreck + Half Moon Bay & Iguana Island
Shipwreck + Floating tiki bar hop (conditions permitting)

Book a Private Charter See Activities